Parola Island | White Castle Island| Subic, Philippines

May 3, 2014– One sweet Saturday morning, an unforgettable journey going to an unexpected paradise in the heart of Zambales, Philippines.

From Angeles City Pampanga, we traveled less than two hours (thanks to the brilliant minds who made SCTEX happen though!).

SCTEX

Me, my boyfriend with our dear friends were finally heading to a fascinating trip. Because of the beauty we discovered in that place, I voluntarily disobeyed the advise of my doctor! Right, let me spill it out, I have an ear infection I got from a contaminated/polluted/dirty water in a pool (that was in a big island resort in Bulacan). That experience was really horrifying! Can’t sleep because of too much pain! That was traumatic to the point that I don’t want to swim again! But not this time.. A paradise made me conquer that fear.. Read on..

Ocean View Hotel and Beach Resort, Zambales, Philippines

Affordable rooms. Accommodating staff. Easy to book online.

The whole story was, we were suppose to check in other beach resort but because it was a peak season something went wrong. The beach resort suggested we can check in Ocean View Beach Resort since it was their sister company.

We said yes because we don’t have other choice! Almost all beach resorts are fully booked! And we can’t wait any longer! We need to see the beach! You know what I mean right?

Piece of advice: Book 2 months before, specially if you’re planning on a peak season.

Squid

Look at these tasty looking squid family! 😀

The driver of our sailboat offered this squid 1 kg. for only PHP150.00 (approximately $4) and he offered to grill this for free! How cool was that! (but because we’re so busy with our thing, we failed to follow-up, so Zel Manalang did the job. Many thanks kuya Zel!)

Kayak

Witnessed a beautiful and very calm sunset while dancing with the waves. That was our unforgettable kayak experience.

The instruction was, do not stay too close with people near the shore so we really have to row the kayak really far, about 20 to 40 feet.

It was my first time to try kayak. At first (the whole time actually) I was freaking out! And shaking!

Poor us. Wasn’t able to take at least 1 photo of our kayak adventure! Will surely have one very soon 😉

The cost for Kayak rental with life vest was worth less than PHP3oo.00 (approximately $7 only) for an hour.

Piece of advice: Please wear the right kayak/swimming shoes (or any shoes that fits your foot that surely won’t slip) Never leave your sandals/shoes on the kayak booth, someone might fall in love with it and won’t give it back 😉 Based from real experience. lol.

Island Hopping

Let the photos guide you on this fascinating island hopping..

Timecheck: 7:00AM The view before leaving this beach resort and while looking for our sailboat. Breathtaking.Ocean View Beach Resort: The ShoreHello Sunshine!Seashore at Ocean View Beach ResortOur company. Charm and Pol walking under this beautiful Sunshine 🙂Saw that big boat (can carry for about 30 people or less) while preparing for sailing. Notice the sky, it was so stunning and calm!Our sailboat!Just arrived in Parola IslandPhoto by: Ralp Raezel UmaliWhat a groupie!Photo by the man in the Island who happen to volunteer to take this shot.Captivating view from Parola IslandLot’s of rocks in Parola Island. Ideal for Pre nup photo shoots.

I suggest you start Island hopping before 7am. We arrive at Parola Island, around 7:20am and it was perfect! Very few people on the island. It was is indeed a paradise because of its natural crystal clear water. Come early because if its crowded, ummm.. that’s a different story. You won’t quite enjoy the beautiful island because it’s small.

Snorkeling

Before we dive and swim with the fishes and octopus! (seriously)Photo credits to Zel ManalangSwimming with the fish was an experience one can’t resist!Photo credits to Zel ManalangRalp (boyfriend) and I. Snapshot before snorkeling 😀 Photo Credits to Zel ManalangInstant fish spa with my better half.View from the crystal clear water of Parola Island

Have you been in this magical place (a piece of heaven)? Can you share a one time big time adventure with us? Share yours on comments below!